As Michigan braces for its first significant heatwave of the season, with temperatures forecast to potentially reach the mid- to upper-90s for much of the state over the next several days, the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) is urging residents and visitors to take steps now to stay safe in the extreme heat.

“Nothing beats a Pure Michigan summer, and as we begin to enjoy it, let’s take action to stay safe when temperatures get too hot like they will over the next few days,” Governor Gretchen Whitmer said in a press release on Friday. “I encourage everyone to keep a close eye on older relatives and neighbors, children, and pets especially as heat and humidity reach high levels. I’m also grateful to the local first responders, our MSP troopers, and Colonel Grady who will be available to assist you. Check out the resources available to you in your community to stay cool and ask for help if you need it. Together, we will stay prepared and stay safe all summer long.”

“With parts of our state experiencing very high temperatures over the next week, it is important for Michiganders to take steps to stay cool, safe, and healthy,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “Limit time in the heat if you can. Stay hydrated. Check on those in your family or community who may need help. Those without access to air conditioning can text or call Michigan 211 or contact their local health department to find nearby cooling centers. Michiganders are strong, and we’ll get through this.”

The combination of high temperatures and humidity can pose serious health risks if proper precautions aren’t taken. While most healthy adults can tolerate short periods of heat, infants, young children, older adults, outdoor workers, and those with pre-existing health conditions are at higher risk of heat-related illness.

“Heat events can escalate quickly, especially for those who work outside or spend extended time in the sun,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the Michigan State Police and state director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. “By staying informed and prepared, you can avoid preventable heat illnesses and be ready to help those who may need extra support.”

To prepare for extreme heat:

– Stay informed by monitoring local weather forecasts.

– Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with blinds, shades, or awnings to reduce heat entering your home.

– Identify nearby air-conditioned locations or cooling centers in your community.

– Check regularly on elderly family members, young children, neighbors, and pets.

If you work or spend time outdoors:

– Schedule strenuous activities for early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower.

– Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

– Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen.

– Stay hydrated by drinking water consistently throughout the day.

To prevent heat illness:

– Drink plenty of water; avoid alcohol and caffeine which can contribute to dehydration.

– Limit vigorous activity, especially during peak heat hours.

– Use fans and air conditioning whenever possible.

Even short periods of extreme heat can be dangerous. To learn more about extreme heat and find out how to prepare before, during and after an emergency or disaster, visit http://www.michigan.gov/miready and follow MSP/EMHSD on X at @MichEMHS.

In addition to MSP/EMHSD’s safety reminders, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has issued important health and safety recommendations for coping with excessive heat.